President's Update: Nelson Mandela

In Honor of Nelson Mandela

“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” — Nelson Mandela

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Students:

Yesterday the world lost one of its greatest leaders and humanitarians, Nelson ‘Madiba’ Mandela. South Africa’s first black leader, and its first democratically elected president, guided the country through a peaceful transition that culminated in the abolishment of apartheid. President Mandela’s struggle and activism for social justice and ultimate triumph became a story of hope and optimism for people around the globe.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Mandela family as we, alongside South Africans and people around the world, mourn the passing of this icon. May his legacy of social justice through the promotion of peace, human rights and democracy continue to inspire and galvanize us to transform our own communities. For more information about his legacy, please visit the Nelson Mandela Foundation website – click here.